A health newsletter for
adults over 60 who want to live fully, stay engaged in life, and continue doing what they love! |
How Play Keeps You Stronger, Sharper & YoungerRemember the joy of play? Tag. Hopscotch. Rolling in the grass. As kids, we didn’t "work out" — we played. And guess what? That playful kind of movement is one of the most powerful ways to stay young — physically, mentally, and emotionally. This is why I bring play into my individual and group sessions. Studies on Play- A 2023 study published in Frontiers in Public Health found that older adults who participated in playful balance and agility training — like obstacle courses, dance-based drills, and quick-step games — improved their balance and reaction time significantly more than
those doing traditional walking or stretching programs.
- Another study in The Journal of Aging and Physical Activity showed that seniors who engaged in group-based “game-like” movements (such as partner ball tosses, cone weaving, and rhythm-based stepping) reported higher enjoyment, better adherence, and greater improvements in mobility than those in traditional gym routines.
And research continues to show that dancing, playing catch, and reactive movement drills not only improve physical function but also boost memory, sharpen focus, and elevate mood — thanks to their demand for quick thinking and coordination. - It’s naturally motivating. You forget you're exercising.
- It recruits brain + body. Balance, memory, reaction time — all in one.
- It creates joy. Laughter, spontaneity,
connection.
- And… it’s inter-generational.
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Play With Your Grandkids- Or Borrow Some!Want the perfect functional workout? - Chase your grandkids in the yard.
- Play catch.
- Build an obstacle course together.
- Dance around the living room.
These spontaneous, joyful moments check every box: - Balance
- Agility
- Coordination
- Laughter
- Bonding
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To Be Continued...Next week, I’ll share an easy “Play-Based
Weekly Routine” you can follow — no gym, no treadmill, just real movement and real fun. Have a playful week! Kristen Nielsen |
Start Your Freedom JourneyWant to strengthen your body, sharpen
your brain, and improve your balance?
Togetherwon offers personalized, in-home fitness training tailored to your unique needs.
Call today to schedule your FREE introductory session, which includes a balance assessment and foundational exercises
to get you started! |
Summer Strawberry Avocado Crunch SaladHere’s a vibrant, tasty salad recipe that’s nutrient-dense, satisfying, and perfect for warm weather — with a balance of healthy fats, fiber, and protein Ingredients:5 cups mixed greens (spring mix, arugula, or baby spinach) 1 cup sliced strawberries ½ avocado, diced ¼ cup walnuts, chopped ¼ small red onion, thinly sliced ¼ cup feta cheese (optional, or use goat cheese) 1 grilled chicken breast or ½ cup chickpeas (for
plant-based protein)
Honey-Balsamic Dressing:2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup) ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard Pinch of sea salt and black pepper Shake or whisk together until creamy.
Instructions:- In a large bowl, layer the greens, strawberries, avocado, red onion, almonds, and cheese.
- Add your protein of choice (grilled chicken or chickpeas).
- Drizzle with the honey-balsamic dressing.
- Toss gently just before
serving.
Extra Tips:- Add cooked quinoa or farro for extra fiber.
- Swap strawberries for blueberries or peaches if you prefer.
- Add fresh mint or basil for a fragrant twist.
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ANNOUNCEMENT: I will be starting another round of 12-week strength, balance, and agility classes at Peak Pickleball on July 14th! Classes are in-person with additional at-home
workouts and accountability. No need to be a Peak Pickleball member to join. $139/month. Up to 6 people/class. Spots are limited-call now to reserve! |
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